Parliament functions more democratically when its members are held to account for the decisions they make. This is an important role for any opposition party: to scrutinize and critique the work of the government.
In 2011, Labour finds itself as the only party in an opposing role. It is all the more important therefore that they are able to hold the coalition government to account.
In 2011, Labour finds itself as the only party in an opposing role. It is all the more important therefore that they are able to hold the coalition government to account.
The best manner in which to do so is by entering into intelligent and productive discourse over the decisions made by ministers. If Labour is to make any change during the course of this parliament, its members must willingly establish a platform on which to debate these ideas.
At present, there is no adequate platform.
Ed Milliband spoke of assuming a rational opposition to proposed cuts during his debut conference address as leader. The reality of his opposition suggests otherwise.
The flurries of vitriol and bile that adorn debate is flying thick and fast from the red corner and is a worrying indication that Labour currently have no developed vision for alternative action. There is more at stake, of course, than simply helping to shape good policies: if Labour is to ever assume office once more it must stop treading water and Playing Politics.
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